Older women more prone to sleep problems

Older women have far more sleep problems than men, according to a study that shows many struggle to fall asleep and do not feel rested in the morning.

Those with heart problems, depression and pain are most at risk, says Monash University's Dr Denise O'Driscoll, whose team asked 1000 people aged 65 and older about their sleep.

The researchers were surprised to find older people living alone also have more sleep problems than others.

Close to 30 per cent of older women have trouble falling asleep, compared with 12 per cent of men, according to the research results, which will be presented on Friday at the Australasian Sleep Association Sleep DownUnder conference in Brisbane.

Both men and women are troubled by waking up in the night. But only 72 per cent of women feel rested in the morning, compared with 80 per cent of men.

Those who do not feel rested in the morning also report psychological problems, poor appetite, a lack of energy, feeling disconnected and feeling worn out.

There are a number of strategies people of all ages can use to improve their sleep, says Dr O'Driscoll.

These include having a regular sleep routine and limiting caffeine consumption.

"If problems persist people should discuss them with their GP," she says.